Atlanta continued their mega-round trip with a game at Detroit, and it was another close game, but this one will be an L, as Joe Johnson effort to win it at the buzzer goes for naught. The Hawks drop their second straight, 86-85. Atlanta actually played three quarters of good ball, but were outscored 26-12 in the third (That’s right, 12 points in the third). While they came back and beat the Pistons in the fourth (23-19), that previous 12 minutes of futility was too much to overcome. You read that opening section correct. Joe Johnson played for the first time since before -the All-Star break. He scored 18 on six-for-twelve from the floor and a perfect 5-5 from the line. Greg Monroe led the Pistons with 20, and Josh Smith paced the Hawks with 21. Speaking of Josh, the big news was that he requested a trade in advance the deadline. He didn’t exactly say it, it was the catch-all ‘sources close to Josh Smith.’ But since nobody immediately shot it down, we can conclude there’s something to it. It’s not surprising. When the team hits a bump, it’s Josh that bears the brunt. Remember the demand that he never shoot from outside, ever? But with Joe Johnson ailing and Al Horford out, it’ll be up to Josh to carry the team for the next few weeks, especially as this road trip continues with 3 out West. He’s won’t sabotage the team to grease his way out the door. He’s too much of a pro for that. I’ll keep you informed with possible destinations as soon as I hear.